Chennai Mini Bus Scheme Set for Revamp, Launch Expected by Mid-May 2025

With the official rollout planned for mid-May, the Chennai mini bus scheme could be a game changer for mobility in and around the city.

Chief Minister MK Stalin is gearing up to roll out the revamped Chennai mini bus scheme, aiming to bridge transport gaps in some of the city’s most underserved and remote areas.

It has been announced that the scheme will be launched in the second week of May, slightly delayed from the earlier planned launch on May 1.

The updated initiative is set to significantly improve connectivity for small villages, especially those with fewer than 100 households, and for neighborhoods with narrow roads that larger buses can’t reach.

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What’s New in the Chennai Mini Bus Scheme?

• Longer Routes: Under the revamped plan, mini buses can now operate routes up to 25 km long. Importantly, at least 65% of each route must pass through areas currently not served by public transport. The remaining 35% can overlap with existing services, ensuring smoother transitions between transit modes.
• Expanded Access to Public Services: If important facilities like hospitals, schools, or government offices are located within one kilometer beyond the 25 km limit, the route can be extended to include them. It’s a practical move aimed at boosting accessibility where it matters most.
• Strong Interest from Operators: The government has already received and approved 1,842 applications for operating these mini buses. These will be added to Tamil Nadu’s existing network of 2,053 mini-bus routes.

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What It Means for Chennai and Beyond

While the scheme is designed with rural areas in mind, it will also benefit suburban zones surrounding Chennai.

Residents in places like Tambaram, Pallavaram, Sholinganallur, Kilambakkam, and Guduvanchery in the Chengalpattu district, as well as Poonamallee, Avadi, and Thiruverkadu in Tiruvallur, can expect to see new mini bus routes in the coming months.

The Bigger Picture

The Chennai mini bus scheme is more than just a transport upgrade—it’s about giving people better access to daily essentials, reducing travel hardships, and supporting local communities. With the official rollout planned for mid-May, the scheme could be a game changer for mobility in and around the city.

For updates and route details, residents are encouraged to visit the official Tamil Nadu transport department website or check with local authorities.